Tour of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire England

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Bolsover Castle was designed as a place to entertain prestigious guests and has a rich history that dates all the way back to the 1100’s. A tour of Bolsover Castle, will allow you to take in the once lavish rooms, walk the terrace wall, and take in the views of Derbyshire.

Bolsover Castle History

Originally built in the 12th century by William Peveril (former knight of William the Conqueror), it acquired the name “Little Castle” when the Cavendish family took it over in the 17th century.

After being vacant for a number of years, it was eventually donated to the English Heritage and is part of the English Heritage Pass.

Tour of Bolsover Castle in Derbyshire England

Head out the back door, walk a down a path and you will find yourself at the the original entrance to Bolsover Castle. Now a shell of what it once was, you will be able to imagine the long dining room, gallery and kitchen that once occupied the space.

Continue walking the length of the building to arrive at the wall that surrounds the castle and enter through there. As you approach the castle, spend some time in the Fountain Garden. The centerpiece of the garden is a statue of Venus surrounded by some sprightly cherubs.

Inside the castle, you will find rooms still painted with frescoes, lavish tapestries draped on the walls and extensive hand carved woodwork. One thing that sets this castle off from many is that you are free to explore and touch everything. There are no roped off areas at the castle.

You will find yourself winding through small stairwells into room after room; some large and some small. All with the most magnificent views of the landscape.

Take time to explore each of the rooms as they are elaborately decorated and often tell the story of the previous occupants.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk along the exterior wall of Bolsover Castle. It has recently been restored and will give you amazing views of the garden and English countryside. It is one of the few times you can actually walk a full loop above the grounds along the exterior of a castle.

Taking Kids to Bolsover Castle

If you are travelling with kids, you will find that there is a ton for them to do. T

o begin with, there is a playground for children behind the gift shop. If they need some time to get out and run around, this is a great place to do so.

During the summer, there are many different events at Bolsover Castle that are tailored to children. You will find everything from jousting tournaments to events that teach little princes and princesses proper etiquette.

Children can also take part of the audio tour which will keep them interested as they learn. This castle is very hands on, so kids will find things to explore and manipulate along with dress up areas for them to have pretend play.

Planning Your Trip to Bolsover Castle

Bolsover Castle Opening Times: 10:00 – 18:00

Ticket Price:

Tickets are FREE if one the English Heritage Overseas pass. Otherwise:

Adults £11.30

Child 5-17 £6.80

Family 2 adults & up to 3 children £29.40

We really enjoyed seeing Bolsover Castle and loved experiencing this part of England. If you are planning on traveling to multiple English Heritage sites, I would suggest you purchase the English Heritage Overseas Pass. It will save you a lot of money in the end.

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Hi, I am Kristi West, owner and content curator for Day Trip Tips. My passion for travel has taken me on adventures around the globe and my background in education lead me to develop a site that not only showcases amazing destinations, but also gives tips on how to fully experience everything the place has to offer in a limited amount of time!